The world’s most walkable cities

If a walking holiday is your idea of heaven then Booking.com has you covered. From the recommendations of over 26 million travellers, the travel booking site has carefully selected nine of the world’s most walkable destinations– and they’ve picked some real stunners. Cities that are home to lush green spaces and world-renowned sites and scenery, this list had us ready to organise our next trip. Travellers are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a destination for a healthy, active escape.

Munich, Germany

Renowned for its beautiful architecture and sophisticated culture, Munich’s pedestrian-friendly city centre is the perfect place to relish its charming Bavarian scenes. Of all the city’s wonders, the English Garden is a definite highlight, home to postcard-perfect lakes, historic follies, beer gardens – even a Japanese teahouse! Beyond the urban hub, pass the hours window shopping, viewing the ornate public buildings and the beauty that is the Frauenkirche cathedral.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki scores consistently well in global rankings of most livable cities, often heralded for its dedication to creating walkable neighbourhoods and a car-free population. The city has been celebrated for its forward-thinking Scandi design, feast your eyes on the city’s modern fixtures and art pieces as you wander through its streets. With a laidback vibe,

Bordeaux, France

During your Bordeaux explorations, immerse yourself in its relaxed and elegant mood by visiting its vast offerings of neoclassical buildings, lining pedestrianised boulevards and fountain-filled squares. Place de la Bourse is one of the most spectacular with its ‘miroir d’eau’ – the largest reflecting pool in the world. Not only is it easily walkable, but the bike-friendly layout of the city is a dream for those who prefer to cycle between attractions.

Perth, Australia

Perth isn’t just appealing for pristine beaches and clear blue skies, it’s also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. Take your pick from an assortment of restaurants and bars as you stroll the city’s streets. If you want a helping hand to point out the significant historical or secret gems, popular walking tour company, Two Feat and a Heartbeat, will be able to show you the best Perth has to offer.

Florence, Italy

After indulging in fine Italian wines and some Tuscan Pappa al Pomodoro, you’ll feel well and truly ready for a long walk around stunning Florence. Many of its cobbled streets are too narrow for cars, and with much of the centre open to pedestrians only, it’s the perfect place to explore on foot.

New York, United States

With numbered streets laid out in a grid, there’s little chance of getting lost in New York no matter how far you wander. There’s something to discover after every corner inside the concrete jungle and walking from one end of town to the other is not only flat (bonus!) but also full of sights and little-known stop offs. The majority of residents don’t even own cars so navigating the streets by foot will make you just like the locals

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver has often topped polls not just as the most livable, but also the most walkable city in Canada. Facing the sea and overlooking the North Shore Mountains, the city’s far-reaching and diverse views are admired by locals and visitors alike. Vancouver’s bountiful natural surroundings, coupled with a flourishing café culture play a significant role in making it such an enjoyable city to discover on foot. Favourite walking spots include the promenade along the False Creek shoreline to Granville Island, and the walk through picturesque Ambleside Park.

San Francisco, California

If you can handle a few hills, San Francisco is prime walking territory – not just thanks to its sunny Northern Californian climate. The city’s personality is best absorbed by wandering around its eclectic neighbourhoods, looking out for colourful houses and characters. You can also walk the 1.7 miles of the Golden Gate Bridge (or just to the first tower and back again) or step down to Pier 39 for fresh crab followed by ice-cream.

Montevideo, Uruguay

The capital of Uruguay is surprisingly walkable for such an expansive city. With a distinctively beachy vibe, it’s hard not to absorb its relaxed attitude with lazy strolls along the Rambla (esplanade) at sunset. The leafy plazas and grand colonial architecture will no doubt catch your eye – A charming mélange of colonial, Art Deco and 70s concrete towers. The Old Town, Ciudad Vieja, is especially captivating. You can weave between historic buildings with crumbling facades, surround yourself with serenading street musicians – all before tucking into some Uruguayan cuisine from a street vendor.